Recovery of Memory following Amnesia

THE possible recovery of a memory which has disappeared as the result of an electroconvulsive shock (ECS) or some other amnesic agent is of considerable theoretical importance to the understanding of the process by which memories are laid down. Consolidation theory1 assumes that the engram remains susceptible to disruption for a period after its formation and that interference with its consolidation results in its permanent disruption. Evidence suggesting that memories can be recovered2 is rebutted by those who hold to consolidation3. If memories are not permanently destroyed by the administration of amnesic agents, a revision of consolidation theory will be necessary.